Point Lowly / Stony Point cuttlefish aggregation (2026 in-water closure)
Upper Spencer Gulf Marine Park (sanctuary zone between Black Point and Stony Point): in-water recreation including diving and snorkelling was closed for 90 days from 1 July 2026 because cuttlefish numbers fell sharply; it was due to end around late September 2026 but check the SA Department for Environment and Water before planning. Each winter (roughly May to August) tens of thousands of giant Australian cuttlefish gather on this coast north of Whyalla to breed, changing colour as they swim. The exact entry point and coordinates are not published in the sources checked, so the position is approximate and marked unverified.
Facts
- Region: Southern Australia – South Australia, Victoria & Tasmania
- Area: South Australia – Yorke Peninsula & Spencer Gulf
- Level: beginner
- Current: moderate
- Type: shore, macro, snorkel
- Coordinates: -32.99697, 137.78682 (approximate)
- Highlights: giant Australian cuttlefish, breeding aggregation, mating and egg-laying
- Permit: In-water activities were prohibited in part of the Upper Spencer Gulf Marine Park from 1 July 2026 for 90 days. Check current status with the SA Department for Environment and Water (Parks SA closures page).
- Issuer / contact: Parks SA (Department for Environment and Water)
- Website: https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/
- Unverified: Exact dive entry point and coordinates not found; closure end not confirmed.
- Tips: Seasonal only; observe any current closure, fines up to A$100,000 were reported for breaches of the 2026 restriction. Cold water (winter): drysuit or thick wetsuit.